In an extraordinary blend of science, perseverance, and grace, Towana Looney, a 53-year-old woman from Alabama, has become the latest recipient of a gene-edited pig kidney—a groundbreaking step in the field of organ transplantation.
Looney, who describes the experience as “a blessing,” is the first living person to undergo such a procedure successfully, as announced by NYU Langone Health in New York on Tuesday. Her case, carried out three weeks earlier, marks a significant milestone in the emerging field of xenotransplantation—a practice that could offer hope to thousands of people on organ transplant waiting lists.
A Journey of Sacrifice and Suffering
Looney’s story is one of profound sacrifice and trial. In 1999, she selflessly donated one of her kidneys to her mother, only for the remaining organ to fail years later due to pregnancy complications.
“I’ve always believed in the power of giving,” Looney said, reflecting on her decision. Yet in December 2016, her remaining kidney failed completely, and she began the grueling process of dialysis—a process that would last for eight years. Complications further intensified her condition, as high blood pressure caused damage to her body and available blood vessels began failing to support dialysis.
Despite her status as a living donor, which typically provides higher priority on transplant lists, Looney’s journey was complicated. Unusually high levels of harmful antibodies in her system made the risk of organ rejection almost certain, making a donor match nearly impossible to find. For years, her options seemed limited, her health declining.
A Medical Breakthrough Rooted in Hope
As her situation became increasingly dire, Looney was offered a pioneering solution—a gene-edited pig kidney transplant. Scientists and doctors at NYU Langone have worked to refine the field of xenotransplantation—the transplantation of animal organs into humans—through advancements in gene-editing technology and immune system management. The hope is that such innovations can address the organ shortage crisis that leaves over 100,000 Americans on waiting lists, including more than 90,000 in need of kidneys.
Dr. Robert Montgomery, who led the seven-hour surgery on November 25, emphasized the significance of this step. “Without the generosity and altruism of those who participated in our research up to this point, this next step in xenotransplantation would not have been possible,” said Montgomery. “Towana’s case is a precursor to potential clinical trials, under the FDA’s guidance, to determine if these organs are safe as a new, sustainable source of organs for those who need them.”
Looney’s transplant is the third instance of a gene-edited pig kidney being placed in a living human. Earlier cases, including Rick Slayman and Lisa Pasano, saw some initial success but ended tragically—underscoring both the challenges and the progress still to be made in this field.
Montgomery, who performed the world’s first gene-edited pig-to-human transplant in 2021 on a neurologically deceased patient, remains steadfast in his hope. “Every step forward teaches us something new,” he said, expressing optimism for the future of xenotransplantation.
Faith and Perseverance Amid Challenges
Looney’s deep faith has carried her through years of suffering and uncertainty. “It’s all in God’s hands,” she shared with a quiet confidence. Now, after being discharged on December 6, Looney remains under careful monitoring in New York City as her body adapts to the new organ. Given her history of harmful antibodies, she may require periodic medical treatments, but her recovery is progressing well.
NYU Langone expects Looney to return home in approximately three months, bringing this chapter of her journey full circle.
A Message of Hope for All
Looney’s story is not just about a medical milestone but also about the sanctity of human life and the extraordinary power of perseverance. Her journey—one marked by selfless giving, suffering, and hope—reflects a truth that Catholics hold dear: all life is sacred, and every person is a testament to God’s providence.
For the thousands of individuals and families waiting for organ transplants, Looney’s case represents a beacon of hope. “This is about more than science,” said Dr. Montgomery. “It’s about restoring dignity and life to those who have been waiting for a miracle.”
As the Church has long affirmed, scientific advancements, when guided by ethical considerations and respect for life, can be a gift from God—offering new possibilities where previously there were none.
Let us pray for Towana Looney, for the medical teams working tirelessly in this field, and for all those still waiting for the gift of life. May this breakthrough remind us that with faith, courage, and compassion, even the impossible becomes possible.
